Ellicot City DUI Lawyer

There are so many commercials and advertisements dealing with the consequences of driving while under the influence. You have probably heard before that the police are on the lookout for drunk drivers. No matter how careful you may be, sometimes you may have an interaction with one of those police officers.

At that point, you need to be aware of your rights and what you can do to protect yourself and your right to drive. If the police suspect you of driving while intoxicated, make sure you take action. Laws related to drunk driving tend to be the most strictly applied transportation rules. The government has laws in place which may allow the government to take away your license even if the police cannot prove driving under the influence. Speak with an Ellicott City DUI lawyer to learn how you may be able to defend your future and fight for the most favorable outcome. Call today and set up a consultation with a seasoned defense attorney.

DUI Statute in Ellicott City

The law prohibits people from driving under the influence of alcohol, as stated in the Maryland Transportation Code §21-902. If a person does so, the first offense may include jail for up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000. If a court convicts a person of a second offense, the penalty may be up to two years in jail and fine of no more than $2,000. Upon conviction for a third offense, the judge may order a person to go to jail for up to three years and pay a fine of up to $3,000. For more information about the DUI statute, reach out to a knowledgeable lawyer.

DUI with a Minor Present

If a person drives drunk with a minor in the vehicle, the punishment starts at up to two years in jail and fine of up to $2,000 for a first offense. Each subsequent offense adds one additional year in prison and a possible additional $1,000 in fines.

Driving while Impaired

If a person drives while impaired by alcohol, drugs or some combination of the two, the government may put that person in jail for up to two months and order that person to pay a fine of up to $500. The penalties increase for subsequent offenses. If the impaired driver was transporting a minor at the time of arrest, the penalties start at up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Arrest for DUI

The police often arrest people for driving while intoxicated or impaired during traffic stops. The cops may pull someone over if the officer has probable cause to suspect the driver has broken some rule of the road. The officer may request the driver perform sobriety tests or take a breathalyzer test.

If a driver refused to take a test and had been convicted previously of a DUI, the court may send that person to jail for up to two months and order that person pay a fine of up to $500. The penalties and long-term consequences can be harsh which is why it is advisable for defendants to contact an experienced Ellicot DUI lawyer.

How an Ellicott City DUI Attorney Could Help

It can be scary to be accused of driving under the influence. You may be worried about your reputation, job, ability to drive and your freedom. No matter your fears, the best way to deal with them is to get answers. Speak with someone who has experienced the process.

An Ellicott City DUI lawyer may be an invaluable asset as you decide what you want to do. There may be different avenues you did not know were available to you. Learn more by calling an attorney today.